Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects mood, energy, and activity levels. It often shows up as cycles of depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. These shifts go far beyond the normal ups and downs of life and can make it difficult to maintain stability in relationships, work, school, and daily routines.

People may casually use the term “bipolar” to describe someone that is having an emotional swing, but bipolar is more than just an emotional swing. It involves cycles of distinct changes in mood, energy, and behavior that are reoccurring and can be disruptive. Without proper support, these cycles can feel chaotic, frightening, and interfere with everyday functioning.

Bipolar disorder can create cycles of mood that can make life feel difficult to navigate. Depressive episodes may bring hopelessness and withdrawal, while manic or hypomanic episodes may lead to impulsive choices, risky behavior, or strained relationships. Over time, this back-and-forth can take a heavy toll-leading to financial struggles, substance use, damaged relationships, and a sense of being overwhelmed by the illness.

What Are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder can disrupt daily life in many ways, from unstable moods and strained relationships to challenges with work, school, or finances. The condition usually falls into two main categories: Bipolar Type 1 and Bipolar Type 2. Each type affects people differently, which is why treatment needs to be tailored to the specific patterns and challenges a person experiences.

Bipolar Type 1 Symptoms

Bipolar Type 1 is the form of bipolar disorder that is marked by manic episodes that can significantly interfere with daily life. These episodes often last at least a week and may be so severe that medical attention or hospitalization is required.

During mania, you may feel unstoppable energy, engage in risky behaviors, or lose touch with reality. Just as disruptive are the depressive episodes that often follow, bringing deep feelings of hopelessness, withdrawal, and difficulty functioning in work, school, or relationships.

Symptoms of Bipolar Type 1:

Manic episodes that last at least a week and may require medical attention
Extreme energy and activity levels
High levels of irritability
Reduced need for sleep
Impulsive or risky behavior
Risky sexual behavior
Excessive spending or financial recklessness
Possible psychosis (loss of touch with reality)
Depressive episodes marked by hopelessness, withdrawal, and difficulty functioning

Bipolar Type II Symptoms

Bipolar Type 2 is defined by patterns of hypomania and depression. Unlike the full manic episodes of Type 1, hypomanic episodes are less severe and don’t typically require hospitalization, but they can still disrupt your relationships, work, and daily responsibilities.

You may feel unusually energetic, confident, or productive during hypomania, but these episodes are often followed by long, debilitating periods of depression. The depressive symptoms are often the most challenging aspect of Bipolar Type 2, leading to hopelessness, fatigue, and difficulty managing day-to-day life.

Hypomanic Episodes May Include:

Elevated mood or increased energy that lasts at least four days
Heightened creativity or productivity
High levels of irritability
Reduced need for sleep
Impulsive or risky decisions
Increased talkativeness or rapid speech

Depressive Episodes May Include:

Persistent sadness or hopelessness
Withdrawal from relationships and daily activities
Fatigue or low energy
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Over time, the back-and-forth of mood episodes-whether Bipolar I or II-can take a heavy toll. It may lead to financial difficulties, substance use, strained relationships, or feeling stuck in a cycle that becomes debilitating without the right support.

How We Treat Bipolar Disorder

Medications for bipolar disorder are the foundation of effective treatment, but lasting progress goes beyond medication alone. Combining evidence-based therapy, family support, and practical skill-building can help move past simply managing symptoms and support a person in truly flourishing.

Our approach integrates evidence-based therapies, psychiatric care, and skill development. We also emphasize the importance of healthy sleep, nutrition, exercise, and supportive relationships. These factors play a vital role in managing symptoms and creating long-term success.

Our Bipolar Treatment Includes:

Individual therapy to address daily challenges and stress
Psychiatric care and medication support for bipolar
Group therapy for connection and support
Family therapy to strengthen relationships and communication
Mindfulness and stress-reduction practices
Lifestyle and wellness coaching to build consistency and stability